Objective: To investigate the use of biological ensiling of organic residues generated by pectiniculture as a nutritive medium in the production of the microalgae Tetraselmis suecica. Theoretical Framework: Biological ensiling is a process that transforms organic residues into a nutritive source through fermentation. In this context, pectiniculture residues, specifically the soft parts of fan shells, can be recycled and used

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the use of biological ensiling of organic residues generated by pectiniculture as a nutritive medium in the production of the microalgae Tetraselmis suecica. Theoretical Framework: Biological ensiling is a process that transforms organic residues into a nutritive source through fermentation. In this context, pectiniculture residues, specifically the soft parts of fan shells, can be recycled and used as alternative media. Microalgae, such as T. suecica, are photosynthetic organisms that require nutrients for their growth, and their cultivation can benefit from these residues. Method: Twelve vertical bioreactors were used with three experimental treatments (T1, T2, T3) and treatments, one control (CT), with three replicates per treatment. The microalgae were inoculated at a density of 70 x 104 cells mL-1 in a culture volume of 80 L. Cultures were grown in open air with constant aeration. 0-, 60-, 70-, and 80-mL L-1 of the biological silage of fan shell soft parts (EBCA) were dosed. The silage was also chemically characterized and the growth of the microalgae and its relationship with temperature, salinity and pH were determined. Results and Discussion: The results showed that the dosage of 70 mL L-1 of EBCA in T. suecica cultures favors the growth of the microalgae. A significant increase in biomass and cell density was observed compared to the other treatments, indicating that this concentration of silage provides a suitable nutrient medium. The study also analyzed how temperature, salinity and pH conditions affect the growth of T. suecica, finding that certain optimal ranges of these factors can maximize biomass production. Research Implications: Our study demonstrates that pectin culture waste can be effectively recycled as a culture medium for T. suecica production, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for waste management. This could reduce reliance on traditional culture media and promote more sustainable practices in aquaculture and the microalgal industry. Originality/Value: This study stands out for its innovative approach in the use of organic waste from pectiniculture, such as the soft parts of the fan shell, for the generation of an alternative nutrient medium for microalgae. In addition, large volumes of fan shell wastes are currently being generated, so our work contributes to the management of these wastes.